Craving a bit of height? In the Yvelines, the town's centerpiece in Houdan is a massive donjon. Built between 1125 and 1132 under Amaury III, Count of Montfort, it once served to spot enemies and defend the town, and it remains the only surviving element. Though it has had many lives, imagine you can grimper à son sommet, thanks to a lengthy renovation in 2016, and enjoy a superb panorama over this ville médiévale.
Centered on a tower 15 m in diameter and 25 m tall, it features four turrets. In the 16th century, the monument served as a prison, with executions carried out at the foot of the tower. In the 19th century, while many donjons médiévaux were being demolished, Houdan’s survived thanks to a stroke of genius. In 1880, instead of erecting an expensive modern structure, the decision was made to exploit the legendary durability of the walls of Amaury III de Montfort and convert it into a château d'eau.
Then an immense metal tank was installed, followed by a concrete cap at the top of the tower, still visible today. For more than 100 years, this historic monument supplied pressure to the taps of Houdan residents and helped fight fires. It wasn't until 1970 that it retired from its hydraulic duties and became a pure heritage object again, already listed as a historic monument in 1889.
Plan to pay 5 euros to enjoy the tour, which opens to the public from March to October each year, for weather-related reasons, on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. To access the panoramic terrace at its summit, you will first have to climb about 250 steps, some dating back to the 12th century with varying widths and heights. The climb is therefore not accessible to everyone. According to legend, you may be able to see Chartres Cathedral on a clear day!
Dates and Opening Time
Next days
Friday:
open
Saturday:
open
Wednesday:
open
Location
Houdan Keep
1 Place de la Tour
78550 Houdan
Prices
- 6 ans: Free
- 17 ans: €4
Adultes: €5
Official website
ledonjondehoudan.fr
